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Creative Folkestone Work with Unlimited to Launch New Opportunity for Disabled Artists

FT 2021   Thierry Bal   Jason Wilsher Mills 7

 

We are proud to be working with Unlimited to support disabled artists to create bold new work as part of Folkestone Triennial 2028. Together, we are offering one of 11 Partner Awards available across England, Scotland and Wales. 

The awards are part of a £280,000 programme designed to help disabled artists develop ambitious new work and build lasting relationships with arts organisations across the UK.

A quarter of the UK population is disabled, yet disabled artists continue to face barriers to funding and opportunities. Through these awards, Unlimited and its partners are helping to create more opportunities for disabled artists to develop their practice, share their work and reach new audiences.

Awards range from £15,000 to £40,000 and support projects across visual arts, theatre, performance, music, digital media and more. Funding can support work at different stages, from early research and development through to public presentation and touring.

At Creative Folkestone, we believe art can transform places and communities. Supporting artists to create ambitious new work has always been at the heart of what we do, and this partnership is an exciting opportunity to welcome new voices and ideas into Folkestone Triennial 2028.

Jo Cowdrey, Head of Curatorial at Creative Folkestone, said:

“We believe art can transform places and communities. Working in partnership with Unlimited we’re excited to be able to work with disabled artists to create an ambitious, accessible artwork that will be part of Folkestone Triennial 2028. I’m looking forward to seeing how this opportunity shapes the exhibition, Creative Folkestone and the town.” 

Our Partner Award will support the creation of a new accessible artwork for Folkestone Triennial 2028, creating an opportunity for a disabled artist to develop a bold new commission that can be experienced by audiences in Folkestone and beyond.

The awards are made possible through partnerships between Unlimited and 11 organisations across England, Scotland and Wales. Alongside funding, artists will receive practical support, guidance and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with organisations that are committed to championing their work.

Cat Sheridan, Senior Producer at Unlimited, said:

“These awards mean 11 disabled artists can make ambitious new work with a partner invested in them from day one. Not just funding, but a real relationship with a venue or festival that will champion what they create.” 

Applications are now open and will be assessed by an independent disabled-led selection panel through a two-stage process. Successful artists will be announced in March 2027.

Apply Now

Disabled artists based in England, Scotland and Wales can apply now for an Unlimited Partner Award.

Deadline: Monday 28 September 2026 at midday.

We can't wait to see the ideas that come forward through this programme and to support an artist in creating new work that will become part of Folkestone Triennial 2028.

Find out more and apply via Unlimited.
weareunlimited.org.uk

 

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